What it is
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) family. A calming lemon-scented mint relative for tea. Like mint, it spreads — give it room or a pot.
How to grow it
It wants part sun, water it moderate, and give it average, moist soil. Target a soil pH around 6.0–7.5. Space plants about 18 in apart. Expect roughly 70. Hardy perennial.
How it's used
Lemon Balm is used: tea, fresh, infused.
🔎 How to identify it
- Opposite crinkled leaves
- Square stems
- Strong lemon scent
Edibility
PartsLeaves
UsesTea, fresh, infused
CautionSelf-sows and spreads.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.